A crane lifted the sign from its poles outside the site of the former specialty grocery store, which closed in 2002 after operating for 55 years.

"It's just sad. It's a landmark going away," said Green, an area resident.

Marsh Supermarkets, which bought the site last year, said the sign removal was part of a cleanup and maintenance effort.

Marsh said last year that it intended to put a store called Arthur's Fresh Market on the site. But last month, Marsh said it was halting work on the project because of low earnings.

No timetable has been given for the opening of any business at the former Atlas site.

The owners of Bokay Florist, across the street from the old Atlas building, said a new tenant would increase their business and make their community whole again.

"It's a big emptiness in the neighborhood, no doubt about it," Bokay co-owner Janet Smither said. "But I believe if the right people come in, that corner will flourish just like Atlas did."

Previous Stories:

• September 27, 2004: Atlas Supermarket Property Sold To Marsh